By James Johnson

Last updated at 14:17, Friday, 15 June 2012

A group of young people who recently returned from a trip abroad will have been given a “massive boost in their confidence”, a youth worker says.

The eight-strong team from Wigton Youth Station travelled to Razlog in Bulgaria to help communities in the country.

One of the main projects that the helpers, aged between 16 and 23, took part in was refurbishing a day centre for people with learning disabilities.

They replaced broken swings and painted rooms and murals.

Many of their designs featured Disney characters as these were recognised by people who used the day centre.

Youth work development manager Tracey Noble said: “It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those young people.

“I hope we have left a lasting impact.

“I think they surprised themselves with their interaction with the young people – it was definitely a worthwhile adventure.”

But Sam Massey, a youth worker at the station who also accompanied the youngsters, insists that while fun the journey was not a holiday.

She added: “They worked really well and the whole thing has been really great for their development.

“One young lady has cerebral palsy and had never been away without her family so had to overcome a lot of things.

“I think it was an amazing opportunity.”

To get ready for the fortnight-long trek members of the group went on a residential trip in the Lake District to learn about being away from home.

Despite being a ski resort and naturally beautiful area, Sam says that Razlog is far from a tourist haven.

She said: “We had a translator with us and got a real insight of life out there. It’s quite a poor area and they were very pleased to see us.

“It’s evident that they were all cared for but didn’t have a lot of money.”

As part of the trip the teenagers involved completed a City and Guilds diploma in personal progress and living and working abroad.

As well as the trip abroad, members and staff at the youth station are currently putting their efforts towards Something for the Summer, a music festival for young people set to be held at Greenacres Park in Wigton on Saturday August 4.

First published at 14:04, Friday, 15 June 2012
Published by http://www.cumberlandnews.co.uk